What-A-Burger holds grand opening event for new Locust restaurant

Photo by Jesse Deal

LOCUST — One of the most popular lunch and dinner spots in Mount Pleasant now has a home within Stanly County. 

What-A-Burger #13, a family-owned restaurant that opened its doors in Cabarrus County 53 years ago, held its grand opening at its new Locust store on Monday, June 20.  

The business has previously operated in Locust before with its food truck at various locations but now has a permanent home at 101 North Central Ave next to the Sunoco gas station at the intersection of Central Avenue and N.C. Highway 24-27. The company will continue to utilize its food truck at events as it has for the past seven years.   

“Today’s the day we have been waiting for. We are so excited to officially be a part of the landscape of Locust,” What-A-Burger #13 announced on its social media account. “Come see us. Same great good as Mt. Pleasant, now full time in Locust. Thank you Locust for being such a wonderful community in welcoming us and to the many folks that have helped us make this possible.” 

The new Locust location is set at what has become a revolving door of restaurants in the past years. Most recently, it was occupied by Carolina Barbecue Company, who issued a statement online about its closure back in February: “In our fourth successful year of operation, we are very sad to report that today, February 12th, will be our last day of operation for Carolina Barbeque Company at our Locust restaurant location. Unfortunately, our landlord has decided not to renew our lease in favor of another tenant.” 

In 1969, What-a-Burger #13 was opened by Marvin Bost Sr. and it soon became a staple of Mount Pleasant’s culture. The restaurant is currently operated by Zeb Bost and Andrea Correll Rillorta, the son and granddaughter of Bost Sr.  

The restaurant serves a variety of burgers, chicken sandwiches, and sides.